CA-FSC FSC Firearm Handling 3

Question 1

What is a 'hangfire' in the context of firearm safety?

Accepted Answer

A delayed ignition where the cartridge fires after a noticeable pause

Answer

A hangfire is a delayed discharge that can occur seconds after the trigger is pulled, so the muzzle must remain pointed safely.

Question 2

After removing the magazine from a semi-automatic pistol, why must you still check the chamber?

Accepted Answer

Because a round may remain chambered even with the magazine removed

Answer

A round can remain chambered after removing the magazine, making the firearm still capable of firing.

Question 3

What is a 'squib load' and why is it dangerous?

Accepted Answer

An underpowered round that may lodge a bullet in the barrel, causing a dangerous obstruction if another round is fired

Answer

A squib load propels a bullet only partway down the barrel; firing another round into the obstruction can burst the barrel.

Question 4

When a revolver is being unloaded for verification, what must the shooter confirm?

Accepted Answer

That every chamber of the cylinder is empty by visual and physical inspection

Answer

Swing the cylinder out and visually inspect each of the chambers to confirm all are empty.

Question 5

After a 'click' instead of a 'bang,' how long should a shooter keep the firearm pointed downrange before investigating?

Accepted Answer

30 seconds

Answer

The firearm should remain pointed downrange for at least 30 seconds to allow for a possible hangfire before opening the action.

CA-FSC (California Firearms Safety Certificates) Practice Test